Safe and Scents ©2022 by A. E. F.

He wrapped his strong arms tightly around her cold body,  inhaling oat milk and rice cream shampoo from her wet hair. It was light and faded, but still lingering, despite the storm brewing outside their tiny neighborhood establishment.

His checkered wool overshirt captured her tears of anxiety as she trembled in his arms. Her shaking hands crept under the flannel lining and she sighed with relief.  His familiar blend of Dial soap, Drakkar cologne and Doublemint gum was a balm against her frazzled equilibrium.

The black ice roads outside had scared her half to death.

Just then a server swung through the doors of their tavern's kitchen, bringing with him a whiff of homemade stew and fresh-baked bread. It caught her stomach's attention and drew her further from her fears.

Home at last.